Lecture
This lecture provides an introduction to the fundamental concepts of metals and alloys, focusing on the Ellingham diagram. The instructor begins by discussing the historical context and general perspective of metallurgy, emphasizing the significance of the Ellingham diagram in understanding the thermodynamics of metal oxidation and reduction reactions. The lecture covers the standard free energies of formation of various oxides, illustrating how these energies vary with temperature. The instructor explains the implications of the diagram for predicting the stability of different metals and their oxides under varying conditions. Key concepts such as the Pilling-Bedworth ratio and its relevance to corrosion resistance are also introduced. The lecture concludes with practical examples of how these thermodynamic principles apply to metallurgical processes, particularly in the extraction of metals from their ores. Overall, this session lays the groundwork for further exploration of metal properties and their applications in engineering and materials science.